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Topic Review (Newest First)

03-25-2012 10:52 AM

Kiltmadoc

Re: Installing a new winch

We have winches on our C&C 32 cabin top. They were put in by the previous owner.My cousin, a boat builder/restorer, recommended backing plates. We used aluminum stock that we bought at Home depot. It's a total pain in the butt to get them in. We pre-drilled and then struggled to get them between the cabin liner and the fiberglass cabin top (it had about 1/2inch clearance). Also, go look up maine sail's webpage about using butyl tape to prevent water leakage for projects like this.

03-23-2012 03:02 PM

Faster

Re: Installing a new winch

A bigger issue adding winches to cabintops after the fact is the likelihood of crushing the balsa core, esp at the 'pressure points' of the bolts and small washers. A backing plate helps spread that out.

Seem this might be a good place to drill out a larger hole (perhaps leaving one skin intact, fill with thickened epoxy and then redrill the holes. This would leave solid material in way of the mounting bolts, eliminating the crush risk, and at the same time thoroughly sealing the core.

03-23-2012 02:23 PM

rhr1956

Re: Installing a new winch

I just finished installing all the same hardware on my Pearson 26. I made backing plates but didn't use them. I think I will go back and add them though. When I tightened the bolts and nuts (used fender wahshers) I could hear the fiberglass making that sound..you know...that crackling sound. I think backing plates would be a plus.

03-22-2012 02:00 AM

chef2sail

Re: Installing a new winch

Wouldnt hurt to add surface area by using backing plates. We have them under all of our winches. Hopefully you bought self tailing 2 speeds for you halyard winches for ease.

Dave

03-18-2012 08:32 PM

jsaronson

Installing a new winch

My 35/3 has backing plates on the winches. They are about the same diameter as the winch base.

03-17-2012 12:22 PM

sailingfool

Re: Installing a new winch

I see backing plates on deck cleats, but usually only washers under winch bolts. Be sure the lines lead to the winch properly so they dont override, use an angled pad if necessary. See Harken: Winches Magnify People Power

I own a 1977 C&C 26. This spring I'm running all my lines to the cockpit and installing a new winch on the left side of the companionway for the main halyard. I purchased a #8 Lewmar winch and the instructions basically said use 4 bolts. I thought there should be a back plate or something?? Is 4 bolts through the fiberglass enough? I checked my side winches and sure enough no back plate just 4 bolts through the fiberglass. Is the fiberglass thicker in the cockpit or I'm I just over thinking this??? Help please